Supporting Sunderland City Council

The Client

Sunderland City Council is the governing body for the Metropolitan Borough of Sunderland in Tyne and Wear, North East England. Responsible for delivering a wide range of public services from education and transport to housing and social care - the Council serves a diverse population across urban and rural communities.

The Challenge

In May 2025, following the Fire and Rescue Service issuing a prohibition notice, approx. 150 residents were evacuated from a high-rise apartment block in Sunderland City Centre after a complete loss of power and water led to serious fire safety concerns. Initially, over 50 residents registered at the Council’s Rest Centre having nowhere else to stay.

When the Rest Centre was closed a few days later, several residents still needed temporary accommodation and transport at short notice.

The Solution

Sunderland City Council have a long-standing partnership with CMAC since 2019 and together we have built a robust Business Continuity Transport and Accommodation Plan, which serves as a solid contingency solution.
Once a decision was taken to close the Rest Centre, as part of the council’s commitment to resident wellbeing and rapid crisis response, CMAC acted immediately - leveraging its 24/7/365 Business Continuity Service Centre. Within 30 seconds the invocation was acknowledged, and within 30 minutes, requirements were confirmed and actions underway. This is standard practice for all of CMAC’s business continuity client requirements.

CMAC secured 13 hotel rooms for 22 residents within a council agreed budget in the local area, for a 14-night stay - each with breakfast included.

In addition, CMAC coordinated a dedicated shuttle service to safely transfer residents from the designated rest centre (Raich Carter Sports Centre) to the allocated hotel accommodation - ensuring minimal disruption, comfort, and safety throughout.

This fast, coordinated response reflects the strength and reliability of the council’s strong partnership with CMAC. The solution ensured displaced residents were cared for efficiently during a stressful period.

Through scalable services, operational expertise, and 24/7 support, CMAC continues to play a vital role in helping Sunderland City Council safeguard their community and maintain resilience during unexpected challenges and large-scale crisis scenarios.